Religion Etiquette Q&A: Sacred Spam and Non-Attachment

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Flowers and food baskets are fine, says J.R. Brown of the Jehovah's Witnesses Office of Public Information. You're also welcome to attend the "memorial talk" at the Kingdom Hall, which ordinarily lasts 30 to 60 minutes. The talk, which is based on scripture, is usually given by an Elder of the church or a friend of the family who is qualified to discuss the Bible. There may be a song or prayer if the family requests it.

Though there's no specific dress code, it's a good idea to dress modestly in black or dark clothes.

Members Helping Members

As part of Beliefnet's "Religion Etiquette Q&A" column, we occasionally include useful posts by our members. On the Hinduism boards, member BlueLotusPetal asked how to behave in a Hindu temple:

I have been practicing Sanatan Dharma in my home, but am feeling the pull to go to a local Temple to experience Darshan. To tell the truth, I am quite nervous as I am not Indian and don't really know the custom and etiquette of temples.

Member Icarus580 answers:Do visit the temple. I was nervous visiting for the first time too. Let me say this ... the people there were FANTASTIC! ... As far as temple social values, they are simple. ... Dress modestly. There should be a place to place your shoes before you enter the main part. Do not point your feet at the deities. Do not stand with your back to them either. If you are given a book, do not set it on the ground, it is considered an affront to knowledge and thus the Goddess. If you take prasad--take it with the left hand cradling under the right--right on top. It is not like a church service--people may come and go. Our priest stops what he is doing and talks to us. It may all seem unfamiliar at first, but be persistent--it will get easier and you'll feel more at home.